Hawaii Vacations

11/09/2024

Kakimochi and Other “Weird” Snacks in Hawaii: Explained!

Some of our snacks in Hawaii, like kakimochi, may seem a bit "weird," but you'll appreciate your vacation more if you try our local flavors.

11/09/2024

It’s easy to spot a kukui nut tree in Hawaii; just look for the canopy of shimmering silvery-green leaves, and you’ll know what we’re talking about. They glisten under gentle morning rays, swaying this way and that, and bring us back in time, reminding us of Old Hawaii.

The Kukui Nut lei meaning and its history in Hawaii are fascinating. Learn all about it here before buying or gifting one

11/09/2024

Big game hunting may be the last thing that comes to mind when someone says “Hawaii.” The name and the place conjure images of swaying palm trees, crystal blue waters, and languid sunsets (and, perhaps, a colorful cocktail with a tiny umbrella and a pineapple wedge in it). Not camo-clad hunters, biding their time in hunting blinds for the 10-point buck that will land them on the cover of Field & Stream, right?

Outdoor sportsmen have lots to do in Hawaii – including hunting. Learn about Kauai hunting and guided options across the islands.

10/09/2024

Are you considering booking one of the many Hawaii tours in the islands? There’s a lot to do when you’re in Hawaii, and much of it doesn’t require much planning at all. Beach days, sightseeing, and shopping are easy to do. But other must-do activities are best enjoyed as part of a guided tour.

Whether you want to see Hawaii by land, air, or sea, you can’t beat the experience of a guided tour. That’s why we’re highlighting our favorite Hawaii tours along with our favorite tips for making the most of your excursion.

Whether you want to see Hawaii by land, air, or sea, you can’t beat the experience of a guided tour. Here are our favorite Hawaii tours!

10/09/2024

7 Free Things to Do in Oahu (Besides Going to the Beach!)

When you want to go beyond the beach and the waves, check out some of these free to do in Oahu. Give us a call, We're in Hawaii! 800-843-8771

10/09/2024

The cost of a Hawaii vacation is one of the first questions when consulting clients about their trips. While Hawaii is known to be an expensive destination, proper planning can make a Hawaiian vacation affordable and achievable for most people who want to visit the islands. There are several factors to consider when budgeting, so it’s a good idea to get a head start and plan at least eight months in advance.

Uncover the costs of a dream Hawaii vacation - from flights and accommodations to adventures, get a comprehensive budget breakdown here!

10/09/2024

Want to see a beautiful botanical garden Hawaii offers? There are lots of great options throughout the Aloha State, and we’re sharing them today!

Here is every botanical garden Hawaii offers! Plus we're highlighting our favorites on each island. Check it out here.

10/09/2024

Koloa Zipline is the premier zipline experience on Kauai, offering an exhilarating adventure across the island’s stunning landscapes. The course features 8 thrilling lines and lasts approximately 3.5 hours. As Kauai’s longest zipline course, it includes three of the island’s longest lines, including the impressive Waita zipline, which stretches half a mile.

Experience the ultimate adventure on Kauai with Koloa Zipline Tour. Soar across the island's stunning landscapes on 8 thrilling lines.

09/09/2024

Using Your Hawaii Vacation to Reset and Refresh
Today, I want to dive into how you can use your Hawaii vacation not just as a getaway but as a chance to reset and rejuvenate your life. Vacations aren’t just about taking time off—they can be the perfect opportunity to reward yourself and make meaningful ch

Unlock the power of a Hawaii vacation reset. Discover how to use your getaway to rejuvenate your life and make meaningful changes.

09/09/2024

The Road to Hana is a picturesque and scenic journey many vacationers opt to take while vacationing in Maui, and the Hana Maui by Hyatt is the perfect destination for visitors looking to take in all the sights and activities Hana has to offer. It is one of Hawaii’s more remote resort locations, a serene “luxury oasis” with easy access to beautiful Hana’s natural wonders.

The Hana Maui Resort by Hyatt is a luxury Boutique retreat with bungalow accommodations. We're in Hawaii. Call 1-800-843-8771

09/09/2024

Here on the HAT blog, we talk a lot about things to do on Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island, and Kauai. These are where most visitors spend time when vacationing in Hawaii. But some make a more adventurous trek to other less visited islands, like Molokai.

Explore Molokai, Hawaii's hidden gem, with our comprehensive guide on how to get there. From flight tips with Mokulele Airlines to planning your island adventure, learn everything you need for a seamless journey to Molokai.

09/09/2024

Hawaii Becomes the New Paris

Over a third of Americans believe that the Hawaiian island of Maui is the most romantic destination in the world, a new poll has shown.

09/09/2024

I was recently asked to contribute to a article for a major travel magazine in which I was asked to recommend a “dream honeymoon” for couples with a unlimited budget and for those on a budget.

I was recently asked to contribute to a article for a major travel magazine in which I was asked to recommend a “dream honeymoon” for couples with a

09/09/2024

The San Francisco Chronicle has described the ambiance and décor at the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort as “Island-style informal elegance.” The resort opened 25 years ago, and the recent redesign and improvements have brought it to the forefront of resort hospitality innovation.

The San Francisco Chronicle has described the ambiance and décor at the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort as “Island-style informal elegance.” The resort opened

09/09/2024

If you’ve been reading my posts for a while, then you know that I’m all about cheap activities in Hawaii. There are lots of free outdoorsy things to do, like swimming, hiking, and chasing waterfalls. Not only are they incredible experiences, but they are usually free or very cheap.

To make it easier to enjoy Hawaii without dropping lots of money, I created a list of my favorite things to do for cheap activities in Hawaii

09/09/2024

There are seemingly endless beaches on the Big Island of Hawaii, each one boasting unique features and beautiful scenery. Today we’re highlighting our favorites!

There are more than 80 beaches on the Big Island. Here are our 25 favorites -- and where to find them! Get ready to soak up some sun!

08/09/2024

Debunking the Myths About Oahu: It’s Not What the Internet Tells You

Uncover the truth about Oahu: it's not as crowded as the internet says. Get insider tips on enjoying a peaceful vacation in paradise.

08/09/2024

Deeming Yakiniku Sizzle “Oahu’s best yakiniku” restaurant may be hyperbolic but considering our small sample size of one (1) such non-chain Japanese barbeque establishment in the past 10-or-so-years, we are sticking with our assessment and our enthusiastic recommendation. Also, it’s close to the HAT Blog Home Office, it’s quite reasonably priced, and it’s run by a guy that some would likely describe as “super chill”. Buy local.

Our blogger tries a new eatery and deems it to be Oahu's best yakiniku restaurant located in "Old Kakaako" with a huge menu selection.

08/09/2024

There are countless iconic attractions for visitors to Hawaii. From Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head to Waimea Canyon Kauai to Kilauea Volcano on Hawaii Island to Haleakala Crater on Maui, many of these attractions are known and marveled at by people all over the world. All have been covered over the years in pages here on the HAT Blog. But we’re discussing here “Hawaii’s hidden gems”, unexpected delights most wouldn’t expect to find in a tropical paradise.

Wineries and distilleries are among Hawaii's hidden gems and can be found on all of Hawaii's major islands.

08/09/2024

Surfing in Hawaii is an unforgettable experience. This sport is closely intertwined with the culture and history of the islands, and even beginners can join in on the fun. Visitors of (nearly) all ages and levels get to feel at one with the ocean, get great exercise, and experience the unbeatable thrill of riding a wave.

Curious about surfing in Hawaii? We have info for all levels, whether you’re an experienced surfer or a complete beginner.

Curious about surfing in Hawaii? We have info for all levels, whether you’re an experienced surfer or a complete beginner.

08/09/2024

There are countless iconic attractions for visitors to Hawaii. From Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head to Waimea Canyon Kauai to Kilauea Volcano on Hawaii Island to Haleakala Crater on Maui, many of these attractions are known and marveled at by people all over the world. All have been covered over the years in pages here on the HAT Blog. But we’re discussing here “Hawaii’s hidden gems”, unexpected delights most wouldn’t expect to find in a tropical paradise.

Wineries and distilleries are among Hawaii's hidden gems and can be found on all of Hawaii's major islands.

08/09/2024

I’ve had an unofficial policy of avoiding Waikiki unless I’m being paid to be there since before the pandemic. I’ve had an official policy of avoiding Las Vegas without generous remuneration for decades, for pretty much the same reason. There’s really nothing there for me. But we’ve a dear friend in town we haven’t seen in years here at the HAT Blog, and she was intent on walking in Waikiki. I obliged, even paying for an Uber to get there.

I’ve had an unofficial policy of avoiding Waikiki unless I’m being paid to be there since before the pandemic. I’ve had an official policy of avoiding Las

08/09/2024

Drowning ranks as the fifth most common cause of fatal injuries among Hawaii residents, resulting in an annual average of nearly 40 deaths. Notably, drowning stands out as the sole injury cause, in which non-residents make up the majority of victims, accounting for 53% of cases https://www.hawaii-aloha.com/podcast/visiting-dangerous-hawaii-beaches-where-swimming-takes-a-backseat

Explore Hawaii Beach Safety: Discover the risks of popular beaches like Hanakapi’iai, and learn vital safety tips for your visit.

07/09/2024

Let’s face it, a Hawaii vacation can be expensive.

Often customers will find great deals online at sites like Priceline, Expedia or Travelocity but discover quickly that they have to pay for it right away.

In these tough economic times we not only recognize how important it is to get the best deal, but how difficult it is to come up with all the money for it at the time of booking. That’s why we try to make it as easy as possible for you to pay for your Hawaii vacation without the pressure of having to pay immediately.

07/09/2024

Hanalei Bay Pier has become a popular and iconic Kauai hangout over the years. Teens cannonball into the waters below, fishermen cast out lures, and tourists chill under its pavilion.

Hanalei Pier is a historic landmark that's been featured in Hollywood Movies. It just may become one of your favorite places in Kauai.

07/09/2024

Many remember Manoa Falls from the movie, Jurassic Park. But although dinosaurs no longer roam here, the hike at the back of the valley is still a popular destination for those eager to see a waterfall. Mind you, it’s not just any waterfall; it’s the tallest and most accessible one on Oahu – at 150 feet.

Many remember Manoa Falls from the movie, Jurassic Park. But although dinosaurs no longer roam here, the hike at the back of the valley is still a popular

07/09/2024

Wanting a sweet taste of Hawaii’s natural splendor? Here are some of our favorite Hawaiian fruits to try when you’re visiting the islands!

Wanting a sweet taste of Hawaii’s natural splendor? Here are some of our favorite Hawaiian fruits to try when you’re visiting the islands!

07/09/2024

A portion of the Kalalau Trail on the Hawaiian island of Kauai closed this week after 24 hikers fell ill with a highly contagious norovirus, officials said. The trail beyond the Hanakapiai Valley was closed starting Tuesday and will remain cordoned off for at least seven days, according to the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources.

Kauai's Kalalau Trail is temporarily closed after 24 hikers reported stomach flu symptoms.

07/09/2024

There are few things as mesmerizing as a black sand beach in Hawaii. At these scenic spots, turquoise waters and green landscapes dazzle against the pitch-black shoreline. It’s somehow both calming and invigorating to visit, and the photos are incredibly Instagram-worthy.

But where can you find the best black sand beach Hawaii offers?

Because a black sand beach in Hawaii has such a short lifespan, you’ll only find them in areas with (relatively) recent volcanic activity.

07/09/2024

Discover the incredible Maui activities and excursions we offer on the beautiful island of Maui. We’ve carefully selected some of the best experiences to ensure you have an unforgettable time. With a variety of choices available, we’ve handpicked our favorites to provide you with the ultimate Maui adventure. Our expert advisors will plan a comprehensive itinerary for you, allowing you to immerse yourself in the island’s beauty and culture without feeling overwhelmed.

Experience the best Maui activities and excursions for an unforgettable adventure. From witnessing a stunning sunrise atop Haleakalā to biking down its slopes, the possibilities are endless.